Vermont Senate Gives Initial Approval to Bill Banning Flavored E-Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Produc

According to reports from foreign media today, the Vermont Senate has given initial approval to Bill S.18, which relates to the prohibition of flavored tobacco products and e-cigarette liquids.

"As legislators, we prioritize the health of Vermont's youth," said Senator Ginny Lyons, chair of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and the main sponsor of the bill. "The epidemic of youth smoking and e-cigarette use is on the rise. We must do everything we can to protect the next generation from nicotine addiction."

The bill will prohibit the retail sale of flavored cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and e-cigarette liquids, and instruct the Attorney General's office to report on the extent to which Vermont can legally restrict advertising and regulatory labeling of e-cigarettes and other related products.

"Flavored tobacco is more appealing to young people. As a high school teacher, I have seen the destructive impact of flavored tobacco and e-cigarettes on our youth," said Senator Gulick, a member of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and the bill's reporter. "Youth nicotine addiction is an urgent public health issue, and I am pleased to see progress on S.18 in the Senate."

Data from the Vermont Department of Health, as well as the Vermont chapters of the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society, show that nearly all youth e-cigarette users report having used flavored products. Among youth who have ever used tobacco products, more than eight in ten started with flavored products, and nearly 65% of young menthol smokers indicated they would quit if menthol cigarettes were banned.

If S.18 becomes law, Vermont will join Massachusetts and California in banning the retail sale of all flavored tobacco products.

The bill will undergo final review in the Senate tomorrow. If approved, it will be sent to the House for further consideration.